Region on alert over the spread of red eye

PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, Aug 17 2017 – Several countries in the region have reported outbreaks of conjunctivitis at health facilities and medical practices.

“The Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) is currently monitoring the situation and we want to urge persons to take the necessary precautions to prevent and reduce the spread of this illness,” said Dr Virginia Asin-Oostburg, Director, Surveillance, Disease Prevention and Control.

Conjunctivitis refers to inflammation of the membrane covering the whites of the eyes and the inside of the eyelids. The congestion of blood vessels in this membrane gives rise to a reddened appearance and explains the more common names “red eye or pink eye”.

The most common causes of conjunctivitis are viruses, bacteria, and allergens. Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis are very contagious and can spread easily from person to person.

Eye symptoms can include redness; irritation; itchiness; production of excessive tears; clear or yellow discharge that may make the eyelids stick together, especially on mornings; and swelling of the eye lids.

CARPHA said the risk of getting conjunctivitis, or spreading it to someone else can be reduced and it is urging members of the public to practice  the following hygiene steps:

  • Avoid close contact with persons who are ill with conjunctival symptoms
  • Keep unwashed hands away from face and eyes
  • Wash your hands often with soap and warm water. Alternatively, you may use an alcohol based hand-sanitizer.
  • Avoid sharing personal items, such as pillows, washcloths, towels, eye drops, eye makeup, face makeup, makeup brushes, contact lenses and, contact lens containers, or eyeglasses.
  • Disinfect frequently-touched surfaces in common areas, (for example doorknobs, counter-tops in shared spaces).
  • If you are infected avoid using makeup and applicators, (for example brushes and sponges)
  • If you are infected, wash hands well before and after cleaning, or applying eye drops or ointment to, your infected eye.

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